Lamine Yamal getting back to ‘top level’, Barcelona coach Flick says | Football News
Yamal Shows Signs of Improvement Ahead of Rayo Vallecano Match
Published August 30, 2026
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has offered an encouraging assessment of 19-year-old winger Lamine Yamal, who is making strides in regaining his form ahead of Monday’s La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano. Flick noted that Yamal struggled during the team’s season opener against Elche but showed improvement in the team’s second match against Athletic Bilbao.
While Yamal did not score in the match against Bilbao, Flick expressed confidence in the young player’s progress. “I know everyone is worried about how Lamine is doing. He played in a World Cup after a significant injury,” Flick told reporters on Sunday.
Yamal, a Spanish World Cup winner, has not yet returned to his best following a hamstring injury sustained in April. Although he participated in the World Cup, he had limited impact throughout the tournament, contributing to Spain’s success.
“Now he’s coming back after three weeks of holiday, and maybe the first game was not his best,” Flick said. “Nevertheless, I was very happy that he started the game and worked for the team.”
In Thursday’s match against Athletic Bilbao, Yamal had an underwhelming first half but improved significantly after the break. “He played 90 minutes against Bilbao, and it’s good for him to have that time on the pitch,” Flick added. “We saw him in some situations really at that top level.”
Following the match against Elche, Yamal appeared downcast but showed a more positive demeanor in training ahead of the upcoming clash. Flick noted, “Of course, it’s always good when players are smiling, but it’s not the same every day.”
Barcelona has secured victories in both of their opening fixtures, with Raphinha stepping in as a makeshift striker in the absence of their top target, Julian Alvarez, from Atletico Madrid. Flick expressed contentment with the current squad and emphasized that the club is not feeling pressured to make additional signings.
“I’m happy with my team. [Sporting director] Deco is working to strengthen the team. We don’t have pressure,” he said, reiterating confidence in his available players if no new striker arrives before the transfer window closes.
